Katherine Valentine
I am a sophomore in Earth and Space Sciences and as someone who has grown up in our climate crisis, I have always fostered a drive towards sustainable solutions. Living in Puerto Rico, I witnessed the interplay between Earth’s natural cycles and human behavior through hurricanes, earthquakes, or everyday challenges like unreliable power firsthand on a daily basis. This cemented my desire to pursue a career in Earth sciences and renewables.
My experience in Geoscience extends from field work in Iceland with geothermal energy, to my current pursuit of geomorphic research here at the University. I intend to integrate renewables into everyday life and bridge the gap between human activity and the natural world. Many of our communities are left vulnerable after extreme climate events occur, and the outdated, centralized form of fossil fueled power proves to be unreliable. Through living this reality, I understand the urgency to seek sustainable alternatives that honor both our environment and its people.
I have been building my interest in this work for over a decade, and will continue to dedicate my career towards creating equitable, lasting environmental change. I deeply appreciate receiving this nomination for the Udall Scholarship and would utilize the funding and network of colleagues to continue with research in this field.
Goals
I want to pursue research in geomorphology and bathymetry to integrate carbon fixation and renewable energy into high geohazard risk areas. This serves to create sustainable resources that are carbon neutral and mitigate the impact of extreme climate events on vulnerable communities.
Tips
Be personal and authentic when answering the prompts. Demonstrating your character can be equally as important as the academic side of things.
